Characteristics of Osaka in January
January in Osaka is characterized by its severe cold, but the city is filled with New Year’s energy. Many events such as “hatsumode” (the first shrine visit of the New Year) and New Year’s festivities are held, attracting numerous tourists. Despite the cold, you can enjoy warm indoor activities and hot springs. Additionally, you can experience beautiful winter illuminations and seasonal winter delicacies.
Hatsumode Spots
Hatsumode is a must-do in Osaka in January. There are many historic shrines in Osaka, and some of the most popular spots are as follows:
- Sumiyoshi Taisha: Known affectionately as “Sumiyossan,” Sumiyoshi Taisha is bustling with worshippers every year. There are numerous rituals and stalls, offering a festive New Year’s atmosphere. Especially notable is the “Aouma Shinji” on January 7th, a unique event dating back to the Heian period, where the sacred horse “Shirayuki-go” gallops around the shrine grounds.
- Osaka Tenmangu Shrine: Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine attracts many visitors praying for academic success, including students taking entrance exams. On New Year’s Day, “shirozake” (sweet white sake) is sometimes offered, and the shrine is crowded with worshippers.
- Nunose Shrine: Known for blessings of healing from illnesses and warding off evil, Nunose Shrine is popular for its unique “Ichihara Hiroko Koi Omikuji” (love fortune slips). These fortune slips, created by contemporary artist Hiroko Ichihara, feature bold messages.
Laughter Spots
As the Japanese proverb “Warau kado ni wa fuku kitaru” (“Fortune comes to those who laugh”) suggests, starting the New Year with laughter is a wonderful experience. Osaka, known as the home of comedy, hosts numerous special comedy events in January.
- Yoshimoto Manzai Theater: Enjoy live manzai (comic dialogue) performances by up-and-coming comedians. Special New Year’s live shows feature popular comedians.
- Namba Grand Kagetsu: Famous as the “Hall of Laughter,” this theater offers manzai and Yoshimoto Shinkigeki (a type of comedy play). It is an ideal spot to enjoy with family and friends.
- Tenma Tenjin Hanjotei: A theater where you can enjoy Kamigata Rakugo (traditional comic storytelling from the Kansai region). The newly renovated theater is also a charm. Given its proximity to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, it’s a great place to visit after hatsumode.
Winter Delicacies and Illuminations
The gourmet food and beautiful illuminations that can be enjoyed in the cold winter are also attractions of Osaka in January.
- Winter Delicacies: In Osaka, you can enjoy winter delicacies such as crab and fugu (blowfish). Particularly, crab dishes and “kue nabe” (a type of hot pot) are exquisite and attract many tourists.
- Illuminations: There are many spots in Osaka where you can enjoy illuminations. “Namba Hikari Tabi” and “Hirakata Park Hikari no Yuenchi” are especially recommended. At Namba Hikari Tabi, the light waterfall at Namba Parks is stunning, and at Hirakata Park, you can experience warm and inviting illuminations.
January in Osaka is the perfect time to enjoy special New Year’s events, beautiful scenery, and delicious gourmet food. Take this opportunity to fully experience the charm of Osaka.
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